Are you thinking about becoming an orthodontic assistant? Have you been working in the dental field as an assistant or other supporting role but want to take another step forward in your career? Does a stable, well-paying job in a virtually recession-proof industry sound appealing?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you should consider getting your orthodontic assistant permit ASAP. This certification will open the doors to a wealth of career opportunities.

Howard Healthcare Academy offers an 84-hour Orthodontic Assistant course covering all the basics you need to know to get started. It’s just one of our dental assistant programs available for anyone interested in gaining a rewarding career in the dentistry and orthodontics fields.

Here are five reasons to sign up with Howard Healthcare Academy for your orthodontic assistant training today:

• Confidence. Once you’ve completed our 84-hour Orthodontic Assistant course, you’re ready to take the Orthodontic Assistant Permit (OAP) State exam. Test day is an anxious time for sure – be prepared with our thorough, proven OAP course to ace your upcoming test.
• Career prospects. Every orthodontist in California requires the most qualified orthodontic assistant applicants. With our robust training program, you’ll have the fundamental skills and knowledge in place to help launch a rewarding, well-paying career.
• Well-rounded skills. Howard Healthcare Academy’s dental assistant programs combine practical, real-world training with advanced classroom studying techniques. We cover everything related to orthodontic assistant activities. Our OAP program is perfect for anyone looking for a versatile skill set, or more experienced orthodontic assistants who want to ensure they have the best possible training.
• Compliance. The California Dental Board requires all dental assistants working in orthodontics to hold an Orthodontic Assistant Permit. Become compliant today with Howard Healthcare Academy!
• Lifetime support. A career in orthodontics means there are continual opportunities to grow through on-the-job training and continuing education. Your OAP through Howard Healthcare Academy might be just one element of your overall job portfolio – and when you need additional training, we’re here to help with our dental assistant programs and standalone certifications.

Orthodontic Assistant Job Duties – Essential Patient Interface & Much More!

An orthodontic assistant performs several important functions for patients requiring braces, mouthguards, retainers, and other dental appliances. These functions include, but are not limited to:

• Prepare teeth for bonding, and select, preposition, and cure orthodontic brackets after their position has been approved by the supervising licensed dentist
• Ultrasonic scaling (this process removes excess cement and adhesives related to orthodontic care)
• Size, fit, and cement orthodontic bands
• Safe, efficient removal of orthodontic brackets, bands, and other attachments
• How to place and manage archwires
• Daily dental assistant duties

Howard Healthcare Academy’s Orthodontic Assistant course includes in-depth, detailed instruction for these job duties and much more!

Advantages of an Orthodontic Assistant Permit

Unlike traditional dental assistants, orthodontic assistants have more responsibility working with braces and orthodontics. This often means better job prospects and higher-paying salaries!

Howard Healthcare Academy can help you achieve an OAP and set you on a path for success. In California, an OAP is required to work in the Golden State. Just like dentists and orthodontists, dental assistants and other personnel in supporting roles need the proper credentials for employment.

If you’re interested in getting your Orthodontic Assistant Permit, you’ll need to follow the specific steps established by the Dental Board of California:

• Completion of at least 12 months of work experience as a dental assistant.
• Successful completion of a Board-Approved course in the Dental Practice Act and a Board-Approved course in infection control.
• Successful completion of a course in basic life support offered by an instructor approved by the American Red Cross or the American Heart Association, or any other course approved by the Board as equivalent.
• Successful completion of a Board-Approved orthodontic assistant course, which may commence after the completion of six months of work experience as a dental assistant.
• Passage of a written examination administered by the Board after completion of all of the other requirements of this subdivision.
• Submit fingerprint clearances from both the Department of Justice and Federal Bureau of Identification. Please note, this process can take at least two months.

Thanks for considering Howard Healthcare Academy for your OAP needs. To get started with your OAP program today, please email info@HowardAcademy.com or call us at 1 (619) ACADEMY.